A young woman died in an accident at the Matjesfest in Emden on Sunday night.
"An 18-year-old employee of an amusement ride fell between the ground and the ride when it was in motion," police said on Sunday.
Accordingly, the woman died shortly after the accident in the hospital.
The police initially did not want to give any further information, citing the ongoing investigation.
Arrangements with the public prosecutor's office are necessary, said a police spokesman.
The "Ostfriesen-Zeitung" had previously reported on the accident.
The ride was dismantled shortly after the accident.
The mayor of Emden, Tim Kruithoff (independent), was deeply moved.
"My heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased and to all those who love them.
This suffering is unimaginable and leaves me speechless," he wrote on the city's website.
He also thinks of the operator of the ride, all the families of the showmen and the organizers, for whom the tragic accident was a heavy blow.
"The 31st Emder Matjestage should be an exhilarating and joyful festival after the pandemic phase," wrote the politician.
The dark shadow of sadness now lies over the event.
The matjes festival has been running since last Thursday and was planned until this Sunday.
The seaport city is thus celebrating the herring dish, which is offered at dozens of stands.
The festival saw shanty singers and pirate choirs perform on stages around the harbour.
A fair and a children's festival were also organised.